In addition to his parents, Kevin is survived by his brother Sean Ryan and his wife Liz of Melrose his nephew Max Ryan and niece Layla Ryan aunts and uncle Mary Karalekas and her husband Peter of Kittery, Maine, and Judy Desmaris of Gloucester, Mass. They will carry those lessons through life. Thank you for teaching them about acceptance and empathy. Max and Layla will forever miss their sweet uncle Kev. Thank you Kevin for touching our lives and teaching all of us to never give up. With Kevin's passing, he forever took a piece of Sean's heart and soul.

I have never witnessed such a remarkable and powerful brotherly bond like the one between Sean and Kevin. When Sean received a full-scholarship to play basketball in N.J., he left and relocated to a school closer to home, so he could be near Kevin.

When Kevin was happy, Sean felt the same joy. When Kevin needed something, but couldn't find the right words, Sean was his voice. When Kevin was in pain, Sean was in pain. As his older brother, Sean knew Kevin in a way that no one else would or could ever understand. The bond between Kevin and Sean was one made for storybooks. Watching her endless love for Kevin has always been an inspiration to me. Janice dedicated her entire life to Kevin-every single second of every day, sacrificing her own needs to ensure Kevin had a full, happy and equitable quality of life. As a mom, you never stop worrying, but as a mom to a handicapped child, your worry and concern takes on an entirely different level. His mom was his number one advocate, cheerleader and supporter. Kevin's love for his family was immeasurable. No matter the circumstances, Kevin always found a way through life and a way into everyone's heart. Many years ago, Kevin taught himself to speak Spanish and served as our family's dedicated translator. A lover of music, Kevin was known to belt out some serious tunes during holiday get-togethers, as well as embracing every opportunity to sing with his church. His speed-dial was always ready, as Kevin loved to call everyone to check in on them (sometimes multiple times a day). If Kevin knew you needed help, he was the first person to try to help find a solution. or swimming in the Dominican Republic, Kevin always lived his life to the fullest.

Kevin was one of the toughest people I have ever met and he never allowed his physical challenges to get in his way. If you were lucky enough to have met him, you truly understand. We will forever miss his big, beautiful smile that could brighten a room, his sweet, caring and empathetic heart, and his unwavering love for his family, friends and community. Kevin's tragic and sudden passing has rocked our family to the core. Ryan, age 40, of Andover, passed away on Sunday, February 28, 2021.

Almost Home by Kevin M. Ryan